Glucuronidation
The workhorse of detox. Glucuronidation is the most important Phase II detoxification pathway, processing up to 40% of all compounds the liver metabolizes. It conjugates toxins, hormones, and drugs with glucuronic acid for elimination. Gut bacteria can sabotage this process.
What Gets Glucuronidated
Estrogens
Major estrogen clearance route. Estrone, estradiol, estriol. Critical for hormone balance.
Bilirubin
From heme breakdown. Conjugated for excretion. Gilbert's syndrome = slow UGT1A1.
Medications
Acetaminophen, NSAIDs, morphine. Benzodiazepines. Many drug interactions here.
Thyroid Hormones
T3, T4 clearance. Part of thyroid metabolism. Affects hormone levels.
Carcinogens
Benzopyrene, PAHs. Environmental toxins. Cancer prevention pathway.
Cannabinoids
THC, CBD metabolism. Glucuronidated for excretion. Explains drug test timing.
The Beta-Glucuronidase Problem
What It Is
Bacterial enzyme in gut. Uncouples glucuronide bonds. Reactivates toxins/hormones. They get reabsorbed.
Estrogen Recirculation
High β-glucuronidase = estrogen reabsorption. Contributes to estrogen dominance. Breast cancer risk.
Causes of High β-G
Dysbiosis, high-fat diet. Low fiber. Certain bacteria. Constipation allows more time for uncoupling.
Testing
Stool test measures β-glucuronidase. GI-MAP, comprehensive stool analysis. Functional medicine marker.
Supporting Glucuronidation
Calcium D-Glucarate
Inhibits β-glucuronidase. Prevents reabsorption. 500-1500mg daily. Key supplement.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts. Natural D-glucarate. Also induce UGT enzymes.
Fiber
Feeds good bacteria. Reduces β-glucuronidase producers. Binds toxins. 25-35g daily.
Probiotics
Rebalance microbiome. Certain strains lower β-G. Lactobacillus species especially.
Regular Bowel Movements
Constipation allows reabsorption. Daily elimination goal. Magnesium, water, fiber.
B Vitamins
Support UDP-glucuronosyltransferases. B3 especially. Magnesium also cofactor.